Barbecue grill with folding shelves

ABSTRACT

A portable cooking apparatus is provided comprising a cooking chamber having a fire bowl mounted on a base; and at least one shelf being directly and pivotally attached to the base, the shelf is foldable inwardly towards the fire bowl during a stowage position and extendable outwardly away from said fire bowl during the usage position and there is a distance between the shelf and the fire bowl to avoid heat damage to the shelf when the fire bowl is in use.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation application of U.S. application Ser.No. 11/098,721, entitled “Barbecue Grill and Support Frame Assembly”which was filed on Apr. 4, 2005 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,976,485 and has nowbeen given a notice of allowance; which is a continuation application ofU.S. application Ser. No. 10/319,421, entitled “Barbecue Grill andSupport Frame Assembly” which was filed on Dec. 13, 2002 and issued asU.S. Pat. No. 6,910,476; AND this application is also a continuationapplication of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/444,237, entitled “PortableCooking Apparatus” which was filed on May 27, 2003 now U.S. Pat.6,981,497 and has now been given a Notice of Allowance; which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/736,847, entitled“Cooking Apparatus” which was filed on Dec. 13, 2000 and issued as U.S.Pat. No. 6,606,987.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to a barbecue cooking apparatus and moreparticularly, to a compact portable barbecue grill with foldable shelvesfor cooking food.

2. Description of the Related Art

Fixed outdoor fireplaces or barbecues have been known for many years.Typically, these fireplaces or barbecues are constructed of brick,masonry and/or metal. In recent years, portable outdoor fireplaces orbarbecues have entered the marketplace. Such portable barbecues arecompact and are readily movable from one location to another such abeach or park, and readily transportable within a vehicle, such as anautomobile.

Barbecue grills have grown in popularity in recent years. There are twoprimary types of barbecue grills commonly used: gas grills and solidfuel grills. Gas barbecue grills employ a gas burner or group of burnersto cook food that is supported on a grate above the burner(s). The fuelsource for gas barbecue grills is typically liquid propane or naturalgas. Solid fuel barbecue grills use combustible solid fuel, typicallycharcoal, to cook the food. As a result, this type of grill is commonlyreferred to as a charcoal barbecue grill. Regardless of the type, thebarbecue grill has a cooking chamber that includes a cover and afirebox. By movement of the cover, the cooking chamber is movablebetween an open position and a closed position. The cooking chamber maybe in the closed position when the food is being cooked by the barbecuegrill. Preferably, the cover is in the closed position when the grill isnot in use, and instead is stored between uses.

During operation of the barbecue grill, food is placed on the grate forcooking, which results in grease and such byproducts from the food beingreleased during cooking. The quantity of grease generated during thecooking process varies with a number of factors, including but notlimited to the type of food cooked, the amount of food cooked, theamount of heat generated by the heat source such as a burner tube, andthe ambient conditions. Over time and repeated use, grease andbyproducts can accumulate within the cooking chamber. The accumulationof grease and byproducts can negatively affect the performance andoperation of the barbecue grill assembly. For this reason, some barbecuegrills incorporate an opening in the bottom of the lower portion of thecooking chamber for passage and collection of grease and/or debris.

Another aspect of conventional barbecue grills is to provide a frame orsupport structure to hold the cooking chamber in suitable location foruse. Also, some commonly used grills include side work shelves, toprovide area for resting food and utensils when using the grill. Thesupport frame structures often serve as support for the side shelves,and sometimes provided as collapsible shelves. In typical grillassemblies, the collapsible side shelves typically drop to a storageposition toward the frame structure, usually into a generally verticalnon-use position.

One example of such a common gas barbecue grill is shown in U.S. Pat.No. 4,677,964 to Lohmeyer et al. In FIG. 4, the cooking chamber 52comprises the cover 58 and the firebox 56. A burner element 62 ispositioned in a lower region of the firebox 56 and a grate 66 ispositioned in an upper region of the firebox 56. A drip pan 98 collectsgrease and byproducts that pass through the drain opening in the lowerportion of the firebox 56. The cover 58 is movably supported by a hinge60 positioned at the rear of the cooking chamber 52. A rim defines aperimeter of the firebox 56. In the closed position of FIG. 4, the rimengages the angled front wall of the cover 58. The grill assembly alsohas a portable cart 22 that supports the lower housing 52 of the grill,as it is suspended on the side members 40 of the cart 22. The grillassembly further provides a working surface, such as a working board 170supported on the side members of the cart 22, adjacent the cookingvessel 24. In a collapsible arrangement of the working board 172, theboard is connected to the cart 22 by a hinge, and is supported by a rod174.

Despite the popularity of grill and supporting cart or frame assembliesin use, there is a need for a barbecue grill and frame structure withcompact arrangement and versatility of side shelves that pivot on theframe into the cooking chamber for storage of the grill. Further, thereis a need for a grill and support frame structure that supports a heatshield and grease/debris collection chamber and serves to support alower shield below the cooking chamber. The present invention isprovided to resolve these and other needs.

Traditional barbecues included a fire bowl, a grill and a bag ofcharcoal, and most recently, gas tanks and separate utensils. Thebarbecues in the marketplace do not provide sufficient workspace duringthe cooking process. In addition, the barbecues are not specificallydesigned to be compact and to incorporate all the above components intothe fire bowl during storage or transport of the barbecue and at thesame time, being conveniently removable from the fire bowl prior tousage of the barbecue.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a cooking apparatus and system designedto be compact and functional during storage and transport and to provideconvertible workspace during usage of the barbecue.

In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a portable barbecuegrill assembly comprising: a cooking chamber comprising a fire bowlmounted on a base; and at least one shelf being directly and pivotallyattached to the base, the shelf being foldable inwardly towards thecooking chamber during a stowage position and extendable outwardly awayfrom the cooking chamber during the usage position and having a distancebetween the shelf and the cooking chamber to avoid heat damage to theshelf when the cooking chamber is in use.

In another embodiment, at least a portion of the shelf is situated aboveand suspended over the cooking chamber during the stowage position. Instill another embodiment, the base is a frame assembly. In yet anotherembodiment, the frame assembly comprises at least one main frame member,the main frame member has opposing ends, the shelf is directly andpivotally attached to at least one of the opposing ends of the mainframe member.

In still yet another embodiment, the frame assembly comprises at leasttwo main frame members, each of the main frame members comprisingopposing ends, the shelf being directly and pivotally attached to atleast one of each of the opposing ends of each of said main framemembers. In a further embodiment, the assembly further comprises atleast one handle connected to at least one of the opposing ends of themain frame member; and a lid mountable on the cooking chamber. In yet afurther embodiment, the handle provides support for the shelf during theuse position.

In still a further embodiment, the assembly further comprises a secondshelf, the second shelf being directly and pivotally connected to thebase, the shelf being foldable and situated above the fire bowl during astowage position and extendable from the fire bowl during the usageposition. In still yet a further embodiment, at least a portion of thesecond shelf is situated above and suspended over the cooking chamberduring the stowage position. In another further embodiment, the assemblyfurther comprises a second handle.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides for a portablebarbecue grill assembly comprising: a cooking chamber comprising a firebowl mounted on a base; and at least two shelves being directly andpivotally attached to the base, at least a portion of each of theshelves being foldable and situated above the cooking chamber during astowage position and extendable from the cooking chamber during theusage position and having a distance between the shelf and the cookingchamber to avoid heat damage to the shelves when the cooking chamber isin use.

In a further embodiment, the present invention also provides for aportable barbecue grill assembly comprising: a cooking chambercomprising a fire bowl mounted on a base; and at least one shelf beingdirectly and pivotally attached to the base, the shelf being foldableinto the fire bowl during a stowage position and away from the fire bowlduring the usage position and having a distance between the shelf andthe fire bowl to avoid heat damage to the shelf when the fire bowl is inuse.

In another embodiment, the present invention also relates to a portablebarbecue grill assembly comprising: a cooking chamber comprising a firebowl mounted on a supporting frame; and at least one shelf beingdirectly and pivotally attached to the supporting frame, at least aportion of the shelf being foldable into the cooking chamber during astowage position and extendable from the cooking chamber during theusage position and having a distance between the shelf and the cookingchamber to avoid heat damage to the shelf when the cooking chamber is inuse.

In still another embodiment, the supporting frame comprises at least onemain frame member, the main frame member has opposing ends, the shelfbeing directly and pivotally attached to at least one of the opposingends of the main frame member. In yet another embodiment, the supportingframe comprises at least two main frame members, each of the main framemembers comprising opposing ends, the shelf being directly and pivotallyattached to at least one of each of the opposing ends of each of themain frame members.

In still yet another embodiment, the assembly further comprises at leastone handle connected to at least one of the opposing ends of the mainframe member; and a lid mountable on the cooking chamber. In a furtherembodiment, the handle provides support for the shelf during the useposition. In another further embodiment, the assembly further comprisesa second shelf and a second handle, the second shelf being directly andpivotally connected to the supporting frame, the shelf being foldableinto the fire bowl during a stowage position and extendable from thefire bowl during the usage position. In yet a further embodiment, thesecond shelf is situated opposite of the first shelf, the second shelfis pivotally attached to each of the opposing ends of the main framemember and the second handle being situated opposite of the firsthandle, the second handle being connected to each of the opposing endsof each of the main frame members.

In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a cooking apparatuscomprising a fire bowl and at least one shelf pivotally mounted to thefire bowl, wherein the shelf is movable between a stowage positionwithin the fire bowl to a usage position located externally of the firebowl. In another embodiment, the fire bowl has an internal chamber andthe apparatus further comprises a grill located within the internalchamber. In another embodiment, the apparatus has a second shelfpivotally mounted to the fire bowl, wherein the second shelf is movablebetween a stowage position within the fire bowl to a usage positionlocated exteriorly of the fire bowl. In still another embodiment, thefirst shelf is aligned with the second shelf in both the stowageposition and the usage position. In yet another embodiment, fire bowlterminates into at least one end portion and the shelf is pivotallymounted to the end portion.

In still yet another embodiment, the fire bowl is mounted on asupporting frame and the apparatus further comprises at least one leg.In a further embodiment, the fire bowl is mounted on a supporting frame,and the supporting frame has at least one handle, and the shelf rests onthe handle when the shelf is in the usage position. In still a furtherembodiment, the supporting frame includes a pair of leg members, each ofthe leg member are pivotally movable between a retracted position and anextended position, and the leg members are adapted to be in contact withthe supporting surface in both the retracted position and the extendedposition, and the fire bowl is located further from the supportingsurface when the leg members are in the extended position as opposed tothe retracted position.

In yet a further embodiment, the shelf in the usage position has aworking surface. In still yet a further embodiment, the shelf comprisesat least one utensil retaining groove. In another embodiment, the shelfhas a working surface in the usage position and a utensil is to belocated within the utensil retaining groove so the utensil is locatedbeneath the working surface when the shelf is in the usage position. Forpurposes of the invention, a utensil includes, but is not limited to,spatula, forks, and tongs. In still another embodiment, the first andsecond shelves have utensil storage grooves, which function to provideutensil storage locations when the first and second shelves are in thestorage position.

In yet another embodiment, the apparatus comprises a lid mountable onthe fire bowl. In still yet another embodiment, the lid is pivotallymounted to the fire bowl, and the lid being movable in a closed positionwherein the lid covers the grill to an open position wherein the lidallows access to the grill. In a further embodiment, the supportingframe of the apparatus includes a pair of main frame members, each themain frame member are channel shaped defining an internal cavity, andthe leg is mounted within the internal cavity.

In another embodiment, the first shelf is situated atop the second shelfin a staggered position during the stowage position. In still anotherembodiment, the shelf rests upon the grill during the stowage position.

In still a further embodiment, the barbecue cooking system comprises afire bowl having an internal chamber, a grill located within theinternal chamber; a lid mountable on the fire bowl; a stand forsupporting the fire bowl; and at least one shelf pivotally mounted tothe fire bowl, the shelf being foldable inwardly towards the fire bowlor cooking chamber during a storage position and extendable outwardlyaway from the fire bowl or cooking chamber during a usage position.

In one embodiment, the system is a stationary cooking system. In anotherembodiment, the system is a portable cooking system. The cookingapparatus and system of the present invention may be used for indoor andoutdoor use.

In still another embodiment, the system further comprising a secondshelf pivotally mounted to the fire bowl, the second shelf beingfoldable into the fire bowl during a stowage position and extendablefrom the fire bowl during a usage position. In yet another embodiment,the first shelf is aligned with the second shelf in both the storageposition and the usage position.

In still yet another embodiment, the shelf comprises at least oneworking surface and at least one utensil retaining grooves. In a furtherembodiment, the stand comprises at least one movable leg. In still afurther embodiment, the leg is retractable and extendable. In yet afurther embodiment, the leg terminates into a wheel. In anotherembodiment, the fire bowl is situated upon the stand during a usageposition and the stand being designed to fit onto the lid during astowage position.

In still yet embodiment, the lid is pivotally mounted onto the firebowl, the lid being movable from a closed position wherein the lidcovers the grill to an open position wherein the lid allows access tothe grill. In still yet another further embodiment, the internal chambercomprises a compartment for retaining burnable material such as coal.

In another embodiment, the system further comprising a propane tank, thetank is situated within the fire bowl during the stowage position andexternally of the fire bowl during the usage position. In still anotherembodiment, the system further comprising at least one utensil, theutensil is positioned within the utensil-retaining groove of the shelf.In yet another embodiment, the fire bowl having a bottom which isconnected to a pair of planar sidewalls with the bottom being locatedbetween the sidewalls, the bottom has an arcuate shape which extendsfrom a fore end to an aft end, the sidewalls having a free upper edgewhich is substantially flush with the fore end and the aft end. Inanother embodiment, the shelf is foldable into the internal chamber ofthe fire bowl.

In a further embodiment, the present invention relates to a cookingapparatus comprising: a fire bowl having an internal chamber, a grilllocated within the internal chamber; a lid mountable on the fire bowl;and at least two shelves, each of the shelves are pivotally mounted tothe fire bowl, each of the shelves being movable between a stowageposition within the fire bowl to a usage position located exteriorly ofthe fire bowl. In another further embodiment, the first shelf issituated atop the second shelf in a staggered position during a stowageposition. In still a further embodiment, the apparatus furthercomprising a stand, the fire bowl being situated upon the stand during ausage position, the stand being design to fit onto the lid during astowage position. In yet a further embodiment, at least one of saidshelves of the apparatus of present invention rests upon the grillduring the stowage position.

In still another embodiment, the present invention relates to a cookingapparatus comprising: a fire bowl; and a supporting frame being mountedon the fire bowl, at least one pair of leg members being pivotallymounted on the supporting frame and movable between a retracted positionand an extended position, the leg members adapted to be in contact witha supporting surface in both the retracted and extended positions, thefire bowl being located further from the supporting surface when the legmembers are in the extended position as opposed to the retractedposition. In yet another embodiment, the leg members are crossed when inthe retracted position. In still yet another embodiment, the leg membersare located parallel and spaced apart when in the extended position.

In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a method ofmanufacturing a cooking apparatus, the method comprising: providing afire bowl having an internal chamber; positioning a grill within theinternal reservoir; and pivotally mounting at least one shelf onto thefire bowl, the shelf being movable between a stowage position within thefire bowl to a usage position located exteriorly of the fire bowl.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are included to provide a furtherunderstanding of the present invention. These drawings are incorporatedin and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate one or moreembodiments of the present invention, and together with the description,serve to explain the principles of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a barbecue grill assembly according tothe present invention, showing a frame structure and a cooking chamberin closed position;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the grill assembly of FIG. 1 showing thecooking chamber in an open position and collapsible shelves in non-useposition;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the grill assembly of FIG. 1 showing thecooking chamber in a closed position and the collapsible shelves in anextended, or use, position;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the grill assembly of FIG. 3 showing thecooking chamber in an open position and the shelves in a use position,with a partial section view of the grate shown to provide a view of theinner portion of the bottom of the cooking chamber;

FIG. 5 is a front view of a portion of the grill shown in FIG. 3,showing the left side of the grill and frame assembly, and a portion ofthe collapsible shelf in the use position;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a portion of the grill assembly shown inFIG. 4, showing the grill grate in partial section view to provide aview of a portion of the bottom area of the cooking chamber and theopening in the bottom of the cooking chamber;

FIG. 7 is a partial side perspective view of the grill assembly shown inFIG. 1, showing detail of the mounting of a frame member to the cookingchamber, and showing detail of the grease collection tray in the frameassembly;

FIG. 8 is a partial view of the grill shown in FIG. 3, taken alongsection lines 8-8 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 9 is an elevated perspective view of a side of the grill shown inFIG. 3, showing the collapsible side shelf and frame assemblyarrangement with the shelf in the use position and the cover in theclosed position;

FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of the grill along 10-10 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 11 is the grill assembly of FIG. 2 with the addition of showingcooking utensils secured to one of the shelves;

FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the grill assemblystructure taken along 12-12 of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is an elevated perspective view of part of a side of the grillassembly of FIG. 1, showing attachment of a gas tank as a fuel supply,with the gas tank being in the secured position with the grill assembly;

FIG. 14 is an isometric view of the cooking apparatus of the presentinvention showing an embodiment of the cooking apparatus in its mostcompact position with the lid being mounted on the fire bowl and the legassembly of the supporting frame in a retracted position;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view through the leg assembly of thesupporting frame of the cooking apparatus taken along line 2-2 of FIG.14;

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of the cooking apparatus showing the lidremoved and also showing a propane tank and utensils being mounted in astowed position in conjunction with a pair of shelves that are alsolocated in a stowage position on the grill of the cooking apparatus andwith the leg assembly of the supporting frame being located in theextended (usage) position;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view through the leg assembly taken alongline 4-4 of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is an isometric view of the cooking apparatus of this inventionshowing such in its typical usage position;

FIG. 19 is an isometric view of another embodiment of cooking apparatusof this invention showing the cooking apparatus in its most compactposition with the lid being mounted on the fire bowl and the legassembly of the supporting frame in the retracted position;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view through the lid latching assembly ofthe cooking apparatus taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 19 with this latchingassembly being also employed within all embodiments of this inventionthat utilize a propane tank;

FIG. 21 is an isometric view of the cooking apparatus showing the lidremoved and also showing the propane tank and utensils being mounted ina stowed position in conjunction with a pair of shelves that are alsolocated in a stowage position on the grill of the cooking apparatus andwith the leg assembly of the supporting frame being located in theextended (usage) position;

FIG. 22 is an isometric view of the cooking apparatus of this inventionwith the pair of shelves being moved to an outwardly extended positionand the cooking apparatus in position for usage;

FIG. 23 is an isometric view of still another embodiment of cookingapparatus of this invention showing the cooking apparatus in its mostcompact position with the lid being mounted on the fire bowl and the legassembly of the supporting frame in a retracted position;

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 23showing the mounting arrangement;

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 24 showing the lidbeing disengaged from the fire bowl where in FIG. 24 the lid was engagedwith the fire bowl;

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view through the latching mechanism for theleg assembly of the cooking apparatus of this invention taken along line13-13 of FIG. 24;

FIG. 27 is an isometric view of the cooking apparatus showing the lid inan open position and the leg assembly in the extended position, which isthe normal position for usage of the cooking apparatus; and

FIG. 28 is an isometric view of the fire bowl of the cooking apparatusshowing the shelves being moved from the stowage position to anoutwardly extended position.

Among those benefits and improvements that have been disclosed, otherobjects and advantages of this invention will become apparent from thefollowing description taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings. The drawings constitute a part of this specification andinclude exemplary embodiments of the present invention and illustratevarious objects and features thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosedherein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodimentsare merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in variousforms. The figures are not necessary to scale, some features may beexaggerated to show details of particular components. Therefore,specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not tobe interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and asa representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variouslyemploy the present invention.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 to 13, the present invention provides abarbecue grill assembly 10, as is shown in the Figures of the invention.The barbecue grill assembly 10 generally includes a cooking chamber 12and a support frame assembly 14. The support frame assembly 14 isadapted to provide support to the cooking chamber 12 and has a frontstructure 14 a and a rear structure 14 b. The cooking chamber 12includes a cover 16 that is preferably connected to a firebox 18 by ahinge mechanism 17. The cover 16 has a lower edge 19 that is dimensionedto substantially mate with an upper edge 20 of the firebox. The matingof the cover lower edge 19 and the firebox upper edge 20 occurs when thecover 16 is placed over the firebox 18 such that the cooking chamber 12is in a closed arrangement. In this manner, the upper edge 19 is inalignment with the lower edge 20, even though there are preferably areasof the cooking chamber that provide an opening or a space 21 between thecover 16 edge 19 and the firebox 18 edge 20 (see FIGS. 8, 9, and 10).Such openings 21 between the cover 16 and the firebox 18 are providedfor passage of side shelves 22 into the cooking chamber 12 for the shelfor shelves 22 to be placed into a non-use or storage configuration, suchas is shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 11 through 13.

A grate 24 is removably positioned generally within the firebox 18. Thegrate 24 defines a cooking surface upon which food is placed duringoperation of the grill assembly 10. In a preferred embodiment, at leastone side shelf 22 resides above and adjacent the grate 24 when the shelf22 is in the storage configuration. In the embodiment shown in theFigures, at least one shelf 22 is secured to a portion of the frameassembly 14 along a hinge line 26. Rotation, or pivoting, of the shelf22 along the hinge line 26 provides selected movement of the shelf 22from a first position 22 a in which the shelf 22 resides adjacent thefirebox 18 and in spaced relationship from the firebox 18. When theshelf 22 is in the first position 22 a, at least a portion of the shelf22 provides a work surface 28 of the shelf exposed for use duringcooking. In the shelf arrangement of 22 a, the shelf 22 extendsgenerally horizontally adjacent the cooking chamber 12, therebyproviding a generally horizontal platform of the work surface 28.

When the shelf is moved to the storage arrangement 22 b, the shelf ispivoted about the hinge line 26, such that the work surface 28 ispositioned facing the grate 24 within the cooking chamber 12. As shownin FIG. 2, the shelf 22 in the second position 22 b thereby has at leasta portion of the shelf 22 within the cooking chamber 12, supportedwithin the chamber 12 above the grate 24. In this manner, the shelf 22passes from the hinge line 26 adjacent and outside the firebox 18,through the opening 21 between the cover 16 and the firebox 18, topartially reside within the chamber 12 above the grate 24. In apreferred embodiment, the shelf 22 is adapted to provide contact withthe cooking chamber 12 such that the shelf 22 is supported by thecooking chamber at the contact. In the embodiment shown in the figures,the contact structure of the shelf 22 includes a projecting surface fromthe shelf 22, such as at least one boss 30 of the shelf 22. The boss 30is adapted to provide supporting contact 32 (FIG. 12) for the shelf 22to be supported on a portion of the cooking chamber 12, and preferablyat the upper edge 20 of the firebox 18. In the embodiment shown in thefigures, the shelf 22 is formed of plastic or the like, and the boss 30is a heat resistant material, such as a metal pin or grommet boss 30.Also, in another embodiment, the boss 30 extends outward from the worksurface 28 of the shelf 22 to provide the supporting contact 32 inspaced relationship from the firebox 18, thereby assuring that the shelf22 does not make contact directly with the cooking chamber 12 when inthe second position 22 b.

The shelf 22 is supported primarily by the connection of the shelf 22 tothe frame assembly 14 along hinge line 26, wherein the support isprovided as a cantilever support of the shelf 22 in the first position22 a. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the shelf 22 is freelymovable in rotation about the hinge line 26 from the first position 22 ato the second position 22 b, without being locked in either location.However, it is contemplated that the assembly 10 may also include alocking member (not shown) for the shelf 22 to be releasably secured inthe first position 22 a and/or the second position 22 b.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the shelf 22 is at leastpartially secured in the second position 22 b by being trapped betweenthe firebox 18 and the cover 14. In this embodiment, the shelf has athickness 34 having an extent that substantially mates with the opening21 for the shelf 22 to pass into the cooking chamber 18. The thickness34 of the shelf shown in the figures includes the combination of thework surface 28, side edges 36 and at least one strengthening rib 38 orridge positioned on the bottom surface 39 of the shelf 22 (see FIG. 11).In this arrangement of cooperative structure combining to form thethickness 34 to substantially cover the opening 21, the ridge 38 isadapted to block water or the like from entering the cooking chamberalong the surface 39 of the shelf 22, even though adjacent areas of thesurface 39 comprise a recess or compartment such as when the shelf ismade with thinner material and the strengthening ridges 38 reside on thesurface 39 to provide strength or beam-strength rigidity of the shelf22.

In still another embodiment, the assembly 12 includes two shelves 22, afirst shelf 40 and a second shelf 41. The first shelf 40 is located onone side of the cooking chamber 12 and the second shelf 41 is located ona generally opposed side of the cooking chamber 12. In this arrangement,the two shelves 40, 41 each are rotatable about independent hinge lines26 to move the shelves 40, 41 into the cooking chamber area such thatboth shelves together fit in to shelf storage positions 22 b above thegrate 24. Further, at least one shelf 22 includes a utensil mountingassembly 42, preferably located on the bottom surface 39 of the shelf22. The mounting assembly 42 is adapted to hold cooking utensils 43 onthe shelf 22 for storage of the utensils 43, by a locking component 44adapted to provide frictional engagement of the utensil 43 to beremovably secured, such as by the user pushing down on a portion of theutensil (see FIG. 12). Engagement of the utensil 43 to the lockingcomponent 44 preferably includes mating of a recess 46 and a projection48. In the embodiment shown, the recess 46 is positioned on the utensil43 and the projection 48 is located on the locking component 44.However, the location of the mating recess 46 and projection 48 may bein reversed arrangement on the structures. In the arrangement of therecess 46 and projection 48, the user removes the utensil 43 by pushingat least a portion of the utensil 43 from a first position 49 a whereinthe projection 48 is within the receiver 46 to a second position 49 bwherein the projection 48 is not within the receiver 46 and the utensil43 may thereby be removed (FIG. 12).

The frame assembly 14 is made up of a plurality of frame members. Theframe members are preferably each of pre-formed construction having anupper portion 52 and a lower portion 54. In yet another embodiment, theframe assembly 12 is comprised of at least two frame member assemblies,a first frame member 60 and a second frame member 62. The first andsecond frame members 60, 62 are secured in position for supporting thecooking chamber 12 by being mounted to the chamber 12 in spacedrelationship, having an extent of space 64 between the frame members 60,62 (FIGS. 7 and 10). The frame members 60, 62 are secured at the spacedextent 64 by securement of the frame members 60, 62 to the firebox by atleast one mounting member 66 joining the frame members 60, 62 to thefirebox 18 of the cooking chamber 12. In the embodiment shown in theFigures, the mounting member 66 includes a plurality of tabs (FIG. 8)extending from the firebox 18 outer wall 68, at the underside and bottomportion of the firebox 18. The mounting members 66 thereby cooperativelymate with surfaces of the frame members 60, 62 and a fastened to theframe to secure the frame assembly 14 adjacent, and in spaced relationto, the firebox 18. In the grill shown, the mounting of the frame to thefirebox 18 in this manner serves to secure the lower portion of theframe members 60, 62 in position without the need for lateral crossmembers between the frame members 60, 62 beneath the fastening at themounting members 66.

The frame assembly 14 also includes at least one cross member assembly70 positioned at the upper portion of the frame members 60, 62. Thecross member 70 is adapted to provide an upper frame connectionperimeter for further fixing the frame members 60, 62 in position andseparated by an extent of space. The connection perimeter includes twocross members 70, a first cross member 72 and a second cross member 74.The cross members 70 preferably each have one end connected to the firstframe member 60, and an opposed end connected to the second frame member62. The mounting members 66, as shown in the preferred form in theFigures, include elongated tabs of metal, the tabs are fastened to thefirebox 18 and extend therefrom. The fastened tabs is especially usefulto provide mounting for the frame 14 to the cooking chamber 12, wherethe firebox is constructed of metal, such as sheet metal or cast metal(aluminum), and the frame 14 is at least partial constructed of othermaterial such as plastic. Since the outer wall of the firebox inevitablywill get hot when using the grill, securing a separate tab for mountingthe firebox 18 to the plastic frame 14 will provide a mounting assemblythat reduces heat transfer to the frame 14.

In another embodiment of the invention, the shelf 22 has a void area 78.The void area of the shelf 22 is located in the area between the hingeline 26 and the firebox 18 when the shelf 22 is in the first position 22a, thereby providing a gap or space between the shelf and the side ofthe firebox 18. This spacing of the shelf provides a distance for theshelf from the heat emitted at the side of the firebox, especiallyuseful when the shelf is made of plastic. When the shelf 22 is placed inthe second position 22 b, the void area 78 exposes a portion of thecross member that thereby provides a handle 80 for the user to move thegrill.

In yet another aspect of the invention, the frame 14 is formed ofgenerally X-shaped frame members 60, 62. The upper portion of the framemembers 60, 62 extend radially upward and outward from a central bodyregion 76, and the lower portion of the frame members 60, 62 extendradially outward and downward from the central body region 76. In thisembodiment, mounting of the firebox 18 to the frame members 60, 62 bythe mounting members 66 is located at the central body region 76 of theframe members 60, 62. The lower extending portion of the frame members60, 62 thereby are adapted to serve as supporting legs of the grillsassembly 10. The legs are formed of a unified structure extending fromthe central body portion 76, adapted to extend with sufficient rigidityto support the cooking chamber 12 with legs in spaced relationship 64without the need for cross members securing the legs together. In thisarrangement, the grill assembly frame 14 is formed solely from two frameassemblies joined by cross members at one portion of the frame 14, incooperation with being joined to the firebox at another portion of theframe 14.

The upper cross member(s) 70 include a handle 80 with a gripping portion80 a. Because the cross member is secured between the frame members 60,62, the cross member 70 is securely fastened such that a portion of thecross member itself may be adapted to provide the handle 80. This isshown in the Figures, as the cross member 70 includes a curved handlethat is suitably dimensioned to provide a gripping portion 80 a for auser to grasp and transport or lift the grill assembly 10. As is alsoshown, still yet another embodiment of this assembly 10 providessecurement of the shelf 22 along the hinge line 26 immediately adjacentthe cross member 70. The shelf 22 is thereby supported in the firstposition 22 a by resting on at least a portion of the upper surface 82of the cross member 70. In a further embodiment, the shelf 22 issupported in the first position 22 a solely by the combination of thecantilever support at the hinge line 26 and contact of the shelf withthe upper surface 82 of the cross member 70.

The grill assembly 10 also includes a heat shield 90 mounted beneath thefirebox 18 and attached to the frame 14. The heat shield 90 ispreferably formed of an elongated piece of metal sheet stock. The heatshield 90 also includes a collection chamber 92, preferably in a centralarea of the heat shield 90, for receiving drip of grease or debris fromthe firebox 18. The firebox 18 has an opening 94 to allow grease ordebris from cooking to fill from within the firebox 18 toward the bottomof the assembly 10. The collection chamber preferably is adapted toreceive a removable receptacle 96 that is positioned below he opening94.

The combination heat shield 90 and collection chamber 92 is preferablysecured into position to substantially span the extent of the space 64between the frame members 60, 62. The heat shield 90 thereby acts as abarrier between the bottom of the firebox 18 and the area beneath theheat shield 90. This is especially useful for the grill configurationshown in the Figures, having a compact design with short leg portions ofthe frame 14, as is desirable for a table-top grill design. Also, whenthe grill assembly is attached to a cart structure (not shown), removalof the grill assembly 10 from such a structure will not disrupt themounting of the heat shield 90 and collection chamber 92 from positionbeneath the firebox 18, as the heat shield 90 remains fixed in positionby the frame 14.

The heat shield 90 is secured in position on the frame by beingsupported on at least one lateral support surface 98 along an extent ofthe frame member (FIG. 10). In the preferred form of the invention, thelateral support surface 98 is comprised of a groove 100 formed in thefirst and second frame assemblies 60, 62. The grooves 100 cooperativelyform a lateral slot along a lateral sliding path residing along a plane102. The lateral slot is adapted to provide a path for the heat shieldto pass into the space 64 between the frame assemblies 60, 62 to beinserted in place, with the bottom surfaces of the grooves 100 providinga sliding surface of edge areas 104 of the heat shield 90 (FIG. 9). Atleast one groove 100 further having a recess 106 with a lateral wallsurface 107 adapted to prevent lateral movement of the shield 90 whenthe edge area 104 of the shield 90 is dropped from the lateral plane toa position on a lower plane 108 (FIG. 10). In this arrangement ofstructure, the shield 90 is inserted by the user between the framemembers 60, 62 by insertion along the plane 102, and then lowered intoplane 108 for the shield to be supported in the groove and preventedfrom lateral sliding removal by the wall surface 107.

The assembly 10 also includes an igniter 110, used to ignite the burnerelement, which is preferably a gas burner such as is shown in theFigures, with a fuel source such as a fuel tank 112. The igniterincludes an igniter actuator control 114 as a button or switch, which issecured to the frame assembly 14 to be mounted securely to the grill 10and yet be exposed for the user to activate the igniter distal end 116which generates the spark or the like to ignite the gas from the burnerfor cooking. In the preferred form of the invention, the actuator 114 islocated on one of the frame assemblies 60 and a portion of the actuator114 passes through the frame assembly 60 to provide an exposed actuatorbutton 118 on the frame 14 at a recess 120 in the frame 14.

A support bracket 122 is provided on the frame at the side of thefirebox 18 for supporting the fuel tank 112. The support bracket 122includes a loop having an inner perimeter that is cooperativelydimensioned to receive the outer perimeter of a standard and common sizefuel tank 112. The fuel tank is thereby held in place on the grillassembly by the combination of the support bracket 122 at one part ofthe tank 112, and the tank being secured to the gas manifold 124 of theassembly 10. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the support bracket 122is mounted directly to the inside of a frame assembly 62, preferably therear frame structure 14 b. The mounting of the bracket 122 includes anattachment arm 126 that extends from the frame 14 to place the bracketperimeter in position for receiving the tank 112.

Referring now particularly to FIGS. 14 to 28, there is shown anotherembodiment of the cooking apparatus 10 of the present invention, whichhas a fire bowl 12. The fire bowl 12 has a bottom 14. Typically, thefire bowl 12 will be constructed of steel or iron. The bottom 14 assumesa smooth, arcuate shape so that the bottom 14 is basically concaverelative to the internal chamber 16 of the fire bowl 12. The fire bowl12 also includes a front 18 and a back 20. The sides of the front andback, 18 and 20 respectively, of the fire bowl 12 are slightly curvedbeing convex from the exterior. The bottom 14 is also curved arcuatelyin the direction from front 18 to back 20. This forming of the fire bowl12 is to maximize the reflecting or application of heat from the heatingunit 22 that is contained within the internal chamber 16. Mounted at theupper end of the internal chamber 16 is a cooking grill 24. It is to benoted that the upper edge of the front 18 and back 20 are substantiallyflush to the upper edge of the left side 26 and the right side 28 of thefire bowl 12.

The bottom 14 of the fire bowl 12 is fixedly mounted onto a supportingframe 30. The supporting frame 30 includes a pair of parallel, spacedapart arcuate main members 32 and 34, which are in a bowl shaperesembling a basic cradle configuration. Within that cradle is mountedthe fire bowl 12. Extending between the members 32 and 34 are crossbraces 36 and 38. The fire bowl 12 is fixedly mounted onto the crossbraces 36 and 38 by mounts 40.

One end of the supporting frame 30 terminates in a handle 42 with theopposite end of the supporting frame 30 terminating in a handle 44. Thehandle 42 is located directly adjacent but slightly spaced from the leftside 26. The handle 44 is located directly adjacent but slightly spacedfrom the right side 28.

The main member 32, as well as main member 34, is basically configuredto be channeled shaped having an internal cavity 46. This cavity 46 isopen at the bottom. A leg assembly composed of leg members 48 and 50 isto be mounted between the main members 32 and 34. The leg member 48 ispivotally mounted by pivot pins, 52 and 54 respectively, to the mainmembers 32 and 34. The leg member 48 includes legs 56 and 58 with leg 56being pivotally mounted by the pivot pin 52 to the main member 32 andleg member 58 being pivotally mounted by the pivot pin 54 to the mainmember 34. The outer end of the legs 56 and 58 has extendingtherebetween a cross member 60.

The leg member 50 includes a similar pair of legs with only leg 62 beingshown. The leg 62 is pivotally mounted by a pivot pin 64 to the mainmember 32. Extending between the legs 62 and the not shown leg of theleg member 50 is a cross member 66.

The leg members 48 and 50 can be located in a retracted positionrelative to the supporting frame 30 which will locate the cross member60 in conjunction with a notch 68 formed within the main member 32 andthe cross member 66 engaging with a notch 70 formed within the mainmember 32. With the leg members 40 and 50 in this retracted position,the leg member 48 includes a pair of leg extensions 72 and 74 which areto be located on a supporting surface 76. It is to be noted that in thisposition the main members 32 and 34 will be located also very near thesupporting surface 76, generally no more than a fraction of an inchtherefrom. The leg member 50 also includes a similar pair of legextensions with only leg extension 78 being shown.

When the leg member 48 is moved clockwise to an extended position, andthe leg member 50 moved counterclockwise to an extended position, theleg member 78 moves within the internal cavity 46 of the main membernumber 32. When the leg extension 78 contacts the upper end of theinternal cavity 46, this will define the limit of movement of the legmember 50 to the extended position. Such also is to occur for the legmember 48 with the leg extensions 72 and 74 as well as the not shown legextension for leg member 50. It is to be noted when the leg members 48and 50 are in the retracted position, the shape of the legs 56, 58, 62and the not shown leg of leg member 50 will nest within the internalcavity 46 in a close conforming manner of the main members 32 and 34respectively. It is to be noted that the leg members 40 and 50 willautomatically remain in their retracted position until such is movedfrom the retracted position to the extended position. The extendedposition of the leg members 48 and 50 locates the outer end of the legmembers 48 and 50 against the supporting surface 76.

Fixedly mounted to the fire bowl 12 at the fore end 26 is a mounting bar80. A similar mounting bar 82 is fixedly mounted to the fire bowl 12 atthe aft end 28. Mounted on the mounting bar 80 is a pivot rod 84. Asimilar pivot rod 86 is pivotally mounted on the mounting bar 82.Connected to the pivot rod 84 is the inner end of a first shelf 88. Theinner end of a second shelf 90 is connected to the pivot rod 86. Thefirst shelf 88 is capable of being pivoted from a stowage positionlocated within the confines of the internal chamber 16 shown in FIG. 17of the drawings to an extended position, which is shown in FIG. 18 ofthe drawings. Similarly, the second shelf 90 is capable of being pivotedone hundred eighty degrees from the stowage position shown in FIG. 16 toan extended position shown in FIG. 18. In the stowage position shown inFIG. 16, the shelves 88 and 90 are located in juxtaposition and inalignment. In FIG. 18, the shelves 88 and 90 are no longer injuxtaposition but still in alignment. The shelf 88 has a planar workingsurface 92, and shelf 90 has a planar working surface 94. When shelf 88is in the extended position shown in FIG. 18, the underside of the shelf88 rests on the handle 42. Similarly, when the shelf 90 is in theextended position shown in FIG. 18, the underside of the shelf 90 restson the handle 44.

The bottom side of the shelves 88 and 90 is what are located in anupward facing direction when the shelves 88 and 90 are in the stowageposition shown in FIG. 16. The undersurface of the shelves 88 and 90includes a plurality of spaced-apart brace members 96 each of whichincludes notches 98. These notches 98 are to facilitate stowage ofutensils, such as a spatula 100, tongs 102 and a fork 104. Also, thereis provided sufficient space on the underside of the shelves 88 and 90to accommodate a propane gas tank 106. The gas tank 106 can be removedand mounted on the supporting surface 76 in close proximity to the firebowl 12. The forward end of the gas tank 106 is to be mounted inconjunction with a support 108, which is to rest on the supportingsurface 76. It is necessary that the forward end of the gas tank 106 beat an elevated position to the rear end of the gas tank 106 in order forthe gas tank 106 to supply gas properly through the conduit 110 to theheating unit 22. Control of the gas from the tank 106 to the heatingunit 22 is by a regulator 184. Igniting of the gas within the heatingunit 22 would normally be accomplished by use of an ignition device suchas a conventional match, which is not shown.

The lid 114 is to be removed by unlatching of a latch mechanism (notshown) in FIGS. 14 to 18 by turning of knob 112 and grasping of handle116 from its position totally enclosing of the internal chamber 16 andseparating of the lid 114 completely from the fire bowl 12, as is shownin FIG. 16. Propane tank 106 is then to be removed and placed as shownin FIG. 18, and the conduit 110 is connected to an appropriateconnection, which is not shown, mounted on the bottom 14 of the firebowl 12. The spatula 100, tongs 102 and fork 104 are then removed andshelf 88 pivoted one hundred eighty degrees to rest on the handle 42,and shelf 90 then being pivoted one hundred eighty degrees to rest onthe handle 44. The handle of the spatula 100 is to be located within thelongitudinal groove 118 formed within the working surface 92 of theshelf 88. Similarly, the tongs 102 is to be mountable in conjunctionwith a pair of elongated grooves 120 formed within the working surface92. Similarly, the handle of the fork 104 is to be locatable inlongitudinal groove 122 formed within the working surface 92. The depthsof the grooves 118, 120 and 122 are such that the spatula 100, tongs 102and fork 104 are located below the working surface 92 so that theworking surface 92 is capable of being used by locating of a plate orother object thereon during performing of cooking on grill 24 even whenthe utensils are still mounted with the shelf 88. However, by using thelongitudinal grooves 118, 120 and 122, the spatula 100, the tongs 102and the fork 104 are ready at hand available for usage.

The lid 114 is connectable to the fire bowl 12 which is discussed inrelation to the third embodiment of this invention which follows in thespecification that permits the lid 114 to move to a tilted position,shown in FIG. 18, which provides access into the grill 24 without havingthe lid 114 separated completely from fire bowl 12. This position of thelid 114, which is shown in FIG. 18, would be common during cooking offood on the grill 24. The lid 114 includes a latching pawl 128, which isto engage with the side 18 in order to lock in position the lid 114 whenit is in the completely closed position, which is shown in FIG. 14.

It is to be understood that the initial position of the grill willnormally be that of FIG. 14. The operator will first put the leg members48 and 50 to the extended position and then remove the lid 114 from thefire bowl 12. The propane tank 106 and the utensils 100, 102 and 104 areremoved from the back side of the shelves 88 and 90. The shelves 88 and90 are then moved to the extended position, which is shown in FIG. 18.The spatula 100 is located in conjunction with the longitudinal groove118, the tongs 102 is located in conjunction with the longitudinalgroove 120 and the fork 104 is located in conjunction with thelongitudinal groove 122. The lid 114 can then be located in the tiltedposition in conjunction with side extensions 124 and 126. Turning of theknob 112 will initiate the supplying of the gas through conduit 110 tothe heating unit 22 and upon ignition of the gas of the heating unit 22,the cooking apparatus 10 of this invention is now ready for usage. Afterusage, the procedure is reversed to place the cooking apparatus 10 backin the position shown in FIG. 14, which would mean that the cookingapparatus 10 is in a position for transportation and storage.

Referring particularly to FIGS. 19 to 22, there is shown another furtherembodiment 130 of cooking apparatus of this invention. The embodiment130 includes a fire bowl 12, which has a bottom 14, an internal chamber16 and sides 18 and 20. Mounted within the internal chamber 16 is theheating unit 22 and grill 25. The fire bowl 26 also has a fore end 26and an aft end 28. Turning of knob 12 causes knob 112 to pivot relativeto block 132 mounted on the exterior surface of the side 18. The knob112 has fixedly connected thereto a rod 134. Rod 134 extends through ahole formed in the side 18 and is fixed to hook 136. Hook 136 can bepivoted into engagement with retainer 138. Retainer 138 is fixedlymounted on the inside surface of the lid 114. When the control knob 112is turned counterclockwise to the maximum, the hook 136 will engage withthe retainer 138, as is shown in FIG. 20 of the drawings. Movement ofthe control knob 112 ninety degrees in a counterclockwise direction willcause the hook 136 to become disengaged from the retainer 138 which willpermit the lid 114 to be pivoted to an almost ninety degree tiltedposition, which is clearly shown in FIG. 22 of the drawings. The lid 114has a peripheral depending lip 140, which is to overhangingly connectwith in a close conforming manner an upstanding free edge 142 of thefire bowl 12. Mounted on the exterior surface of the lid 114 there maybe included a manufacturing identifying emblem 144.

Fixedly mounted to the exterior surface of the bottom 14 is a pair ofparallel spaced apart cross braces 146 and 148. The cross braces 146 and148 are fixedly mounted to the bottom 14 by means of short rods 150. Theouter end of each cross brace 146 and 148 has an enlarged head 152. Thecross braces 146 and 148 are located transverse to the sides 18 and 20.

An arcuately shaped supporting stand 154 has a pair of parallel orientedspaced apart curved main members 156 and 157. Connecting between themain members 156 and 157 adjacent their ends thereof are connectingbraces 158 and 160. Within the convex edge 162 of the main member 156are mounted a pair of spaced apart protruding feet 164. Also formedwithin the convex edge 162 is a pair of slots 166. Cross brace 146 is toconnect with a pair of the slots 166 with one slot 166 being in mainmember 156 and the other slot 166 being in the main member 157 that isparallel to and spaced from main member 156. Similarly, cross brace 148is to be connectable with a similar pair of aligned slots 166. Theconnection of the cross braces 146 and 148 within the respective slots166 is in a snug manner so that the support stand 154 will be held inposition in conjunction with the cross braces 146 and 148. When thecross braces 146 and 148 are located within the slots 166, the supportstand 154 is mounted so as to space the fire bowl 12 some distance awayfrom the supporting surface with it being understood that the outer endsof the main members, such as main member 156, are resting on thesupporting surface 168.

Each of the main members 156 and 157 have formed on their inside surfacea pair of slots 170 which are similar to slots 166. Each cross brace 146and 148 can snugly connect with an aligned set of slots 170 which willlocate the support stand 154 in the position shown within FIG. 19 of thedrawings. This is the stowage position of the support stand 154, whichis to be utilize when the second embodiment 130 is not being operated.

Pivotally mounted to the fore end 26 is a first shelf 88 with a secondshelf 90 being pivotally mounted to the aft end 28. This pivot mountingis obtained by using pivot rods 84 and 86 respectively. The shelves 88and 90 can be pivoted to an outward extending position with first shelf88 resting on handle 161 and shelf 90 resting on handle 163. The handles161 and 163 are also to function to physically pick up and transport thesecond embodiment 186 of cooking apparatus. The inside surface of thefirst shelf 88 includes a series of recesses which facilitate stowage ofutensils, such as the spatula 172 and the fork 174. Mounted on theundersurface of the shelf 90 is a wire holder in the form of a pair ofwire hangers 176 and 178. The wire hangers 176 and 178 connect with thepropane tank 180. When the shelf 90 is pivoted one hundred eightydegrees from the position shown in FIG. 21 to the position shown in FIG.22, which is the extended position of the shelf 90, propane tank 180will be held in position against the under surface of the shelf 90 butpermitted to be located at approximately a thirty degree inclined angle.This inclination is necessary in order for the propane to move the flowin a desirable manner through the connecting hose 182 to the burnerunit, which is not shown. It is to be noted that the second embodiment130 is of a smaller configuration than the first embodiment 10. Becauseof this, it was necessary to fold in half the utensils composing of thespatulas 172 and 174 so as to cut down the length of such in order toachieve stowage against the under surface of the shelf 88. The shelf 88in FIG. 22 has within its working surface 188, which is the uppersurface, a pair of elongated grooves 190 and 192. When the fork 174 ispivoted about its pivot joint 194 from the collapsed position to theexpanded position, it then can be mounted within the groove 190 so thatthe fork 174 is located totally beneath the working surface and does notinterfere with the utilization of the working surface 188. The same istrue for the spatula 172 if it is pivoted from its collapsed positionabout pivot joint 196 to the expanded position and inserted within thegroove 192.

Referring particularly to FIGS. 23 to 28 of the drawings, there is shownanother further embodiment 186 of cooking apparatus of this invention.This embodiment 186 is to be the largest of the embodiments, and becauseof its size, it is not easily as portable as embodiment 10 andembodiment 130. The fire bowl 12 of the third embodiment 186 issubstantially larger in size. The backside of the lid 114 includes apair of spaced apart protuberances 198 and 200. Each protuberance 198and 200 is to connect with a hole formed within the fire bowl 12 withonly hole 202 being shown. The holes, such as hole 202, are formedwithin the free edge 142 of the fire bowl 12. The connection arrangementbetween the protuberances 98 and the holes 202 is such that it willpermit the lid 114 to pivot to an upward position and be supported inthat position with the lid 114 assuming a tilted position.

Fixedly mounted to the bottom 14 of the fire bowl 12 are four in numberof short rods 204. Two of the short rods 204 are fixed to cross brace206 with the remaining two in number of short rods 204 being fixed tothe cross brace 208. The cross braces 206 and 208 are fixed between apair of main members 210 and 212 of the supporting frame 214. The leftend of the supporting frame 214 terminates in a handle 216 with theright end of the supporting frame 214 terminating in a handle 218.Mounted underneath each handle 216 and 218 is a latch plate with onlylatch plate 220 being shown for handle 216. The latch plate 220 isforced by a coil spring 222 to an at-rest position. This at-restposition will lock the leg assembly 224 in its upper position, which isshown in FIG. 23 of the drawings. Connected between the leg members 226and 228 of the leg assembly 224 is a rod 230. The latch plate 220 has apair of pawls 232 and 234 located at opposite ends of the plate 220. Thepawls 232 and 234 are to engage respectively with recesses 236 and 238,which are formed respectively within spools 240 and 242, which arefixedly mounted onto the rod 230. When the latch plate 220 is lifted inthe direction of arrow 244, the pawls 232 and 234 are removed from theirrespective recesses 236 and 238, which will permit the leg assembly 224to be pivoted to the outwardly extending position shown in FIG. 27. Inthis outwardly extending position, knob 236 can be manually tightened soas to fix in position the leg assembly 224 in this outwardly extendedposition. In a similar manner, knob 238 can be tightened which willfurther fix in position the leg assembly 224 in this outwardly extendedposition.

In a similar manner, a latch plate, which is mounted under the handle218 is to be moved in the same way in order to permit the leg assembly250 to be pivoted to an outwardly extended position. Again, knobs 252are to be tightened which will secure in position the leg assembly 250in this outward extended position. The leg assembly 250 is to includewheels 254 and 256. The wheels 254 and 256 facilitate low frictionalrolling movement of the third embodiment 186 of this invention bylifting on handle 216 and then rolling of the third embodiment 186 onthe wheels 254 and 256. It is to be noted that the leg assembly 250assumes a crossed position relative to the leg assembly 224 when in theupper or retracted position shown in FIG. 23. The leg assembly 250 isessentially parallel to the leg assembly 224 when in the outwardlyextended or usage position shown in FIG. 27.

Mounted on the grill 24 is a pair of shelves 88 and 90. The onlydifference is that because of the size of the fire bowl 12, there willbe normally included two separate burners within the internal chamber ofthe fire bowl 12. Therefore, each burner has to have its own separatebutane tank with their being two butane tanks 180 hung by wire hangers176 and 178 with there being a separate butane tank 258 located undereach shelf 88 and 90.

Along with the utensils 260 and 262, which can be mounted in a stowageposition between the shelves 88 and 90 when such are mounted on thegrill 24, there also may be included a basting container 262. Thisbasting container 262 can be disengaged from the backside of shelf 88and mounted on the shelf 90, as is shown in FIG. 28. The utensils 260and 262, which comprise a spatula and fork respectively, can alsoinclude tongs 264. When the shelves 88 and 90 are in an outwardlyextended position with shelf 88 being supported on the handle 216 andshelf 90 being supported on the handle 218, the spatula 260, the fork262 and the tongs 264 can be mounted within grooves 266 formed in theupper surface of shelf 88. Again, the mounting of the spatula 260, fork262 and tongs 264 are such that it is located beneath the workingsurface of the shelf 88.

While the specific embodiments have been illustrated and described,numerous modifications come to mind without significantly departing fromthe spirit of the invention and the scope of protection is only limitedby the scope of the accompanying Claims.

1. A portable barbecue grill assembly comprising: a cooking chamber comprising a fire bowl mounted on a base, said cooking chamber comprises a topside opening, said topside opening of said cooking chamber being situated above said base; at least one grill, at least a portion of said grill being situated within said cooking chamber; and at least one shelf being directly and pivotally attached to said fire bowl, said shelf being foldable inwardly towards said topside opening of said cooking chamber during a stowage position and extendable outwardly away from said topside opening of said cooking chamber during a usage position and having a distance between said shelf and said cooking chamber to avoid heat damage to said shelf when the cooking chamber is in use, at least a portion of said shelf is situated above at least a portion of said topside opening of said cooking chamber during said stowage position, at least a portion of said shelf being generally parallel to said grill during said stowage position.
 2. The assembly of claim 1 further comprises at least one handle connected to said fire bowl; and a lid mountable on said cooking chamber.
 3. The assembly of claim 2 wherein said handle provides support for said shelf during said use position.
 4. The assembly of claim 1 further comprises a second shelf, said second shelf being foldable and situated above said topside opening of said fire bowl during a stowage position and extendable away from said topside opening of said fire bowl during said usage position.
 5. The assembly of claim 4 wherein at least a portion of said second shelf being situated above at least a portion of said topside opening of said cooking chamber during said stowage position, at least a portion of said second shelf being parallel to said grill during said stowage position.
 6. The assembly of claim 4 further comprising a second handle.
 7. The assembly of claim 4 wherein said second shelf is directly attached to said base.
 8. The assembly of claim 4 wherein said second shelf is directly attached to said fire bowl.
 9. The assembly of claim 1 wherein at least a portion of said shelf is suspended over said topside opening of said fire bowl during said stowage position.
 10. A portable barbecue grill assembly comprising: a cooking chamber comprising a fire bowl mounted on a base, said cooking chamber comprises a topside opening, said fire bowl having an external underside and opposing external sidewalls, said topside opening of said cooking chamber being situated above said base; at least one grill, at least a portion of said grill being situated within said cooking chamber; at least one lid, said sidewalls and said underside of said fire bowl with said lid defining said cooking chamber; and at least two shelves, each shelf being directly and pivotally attached to one of each of said external sidewalls of said fire bowl, at least a portion of each of said shelves being foldable inwardly towards said topside opening of said cooking chamber during a stowage position and extendable from said cooking chamber during a usage position and having a distance between said shelf and said fire bowl to avoid heat damage to said shelves when the cooking chamber is in use, at least a portion of each of said shelves are situated above said topside opening of said fire bowl during said stowage position, at least a portion of each of said shelves being generally parallel to said grill during said stowage position.
 11. The assembly of claim 10 wherein each of said shelves folds outwardly away from said topside opening of said cooking chamber during said usage position.
 12. A portable barbecue grill assembly comprising: a cooking chamber comprising a fire bowl mounted on a base, said cooking chamber having a topside opening; at least one grill, at least a portion of said grill being situated within said fire bowl; and at least one shelf being directly and pivotally attached to said cooking chamber, said shelf being foldable inwardly towards said topside opening of said cooking chamber during a stowage position and away from said topside opening of said cooking chamber during a usage position, at least a portion of said shelf is situated above said topside opening of said cooking chamber during said stowage position, at least a portion of said shelf being generally parallel to said grill during said stowage position.
 13. The assembly of claim 12 further comprising a second shelf, said second shelf being situated opposite of said first shelf.
 14. The assembly of claim 13 wherein at least a portion of said second shelf is generally parallel to said grill during said stowage position.
 15. The assembly of claim 13 wherein said second shelf is directly attached to said cooking chamber.
 16. The assembly of claim 13 wherein said second shelf being pivotally attached to said base.
 17. The assembly of claim 16 wherein said second shelf is foldable inwardly towards said topside opening of said cooking chamber during said stowage position and away from said topside opening of said cooking chamber during said usage position.
 18. The assembly of claim 12 wherein there is a distance between said shelf and said fire bowl to avoid heat damage to said shelf when the fire bowl is in use.
 19. The assembly of claim 12 wherein said shelf folds outwardly away from said fire bowl during said usage position.
 20. The assembly of claim 12 further comprising legs, said legs being attached to said base.
 21. The assembly of claim 12 further comprising at least one lid.
 22. The assembly of claim 12 wherein at least a portion of said shelf is suspended over said topside opening of said fire bowl during said stowage position. 